Charles Coulombe

Charles Robert (Bob) Coulombe was born on Aug. 24, 1928 in Corvallis, Oregon, to Frank and Ruth Coulombe. He passed away peacefully on April 2, 2018 in Mariposa.

Bob is survived by three sisters: Patricia, Claire and June; his loving wife, Shirley; five children: Ellen, Darrell, Anton, David and Christine; and two grandchildren, Élan and Connor.

In October of 1955 he married the love of his life, Shirley Wilms in Chicago, Ill. They moved to Mariposa in 1980 and in 2006, inspired by his wife’s devotion, Bob joined her as a member of the Mariposa Lutheran Church.

For several years he delivered Meals on Wheels to grateful seniors who were unable to get to the Senior Center for lunch. For over a decade, he proudly and enthusiastically served as chairman for the local chapter of the Salvation Army. Bob loved to sing and for 15 years happily lent his strong, bass vocals to the Mariposa Community Choir. He also looked forward to participating in Wednesday Night Group meetings with their diverse topics and the lively discussions that ensued.

Bob had a passion for backyard stargazing and delighted in sharing his knowledge of astronomy with anyone, anytime, although he was most content just chatting with friends and family, snacking or taking his beloved daily nap.

In his younger years Bob worked vigorously for PG&E as a member of the mountain crew in the High Sierras. His long-term job was with Vosti Properties, Inc. as construction superintendent and VP of Operations. Most weekends would find him on the slopes at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, where he was a member of the Volunteer National Ski Patrol.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Mariposa Lutheran Church, 4469 Highway 49 South, Mariposa. After the service, refreshments will be provided in Hansen Hall where friends and family can reminisce, grieve, support each other and just chat.